The Full Monty

On reading the programme I was reminded that the company had previously staged the musical theatre adaptation of the popular 1990s film ‘The Full Monty’ in 2007. Naturally, the challenging task of finding a group of men willing to bare all for their passion/hobby wasn’t any easier second time around however, I’m pleased to say, the production team accomplished this casting with aplomb.

We were introduced to Jerry (James Gough) and his son Nathan (Tobias Warrender & Owen Horsley) Owen played the role with confidence on the night I attended. The local community have been rocked by the closing of the steel mine leaving very few jobs available. Jerry owes Pam (Sophia Gough) his former partner, child support for Nathan and after learning of the financial success of a recent stripper act at a local pub where we saw Keno (Paul Mitchell) entertain the ladies. Hoping that this will be the answer to his money trouble and allow him to retain joint custody, surprisingly he enlists his son’s help as they set out to audition other potential dancers setting his sights on forming his own act. An eclectic mix of  the brave - Ethan (Alex Frazer) Malcom (Harvey Grant) Harold (Jon Laight) Horse (Patinson Harrigan) not forgetting Dave (Chris Lambeth).

The boys who bare it all, were supported by many other talented people, to numerous to mention individually by name, whether at dance lessons, as friends, or as women just looking to have a good time.Im sure the audience felt connected with the cast, appreciating Dave's insights on body image, Jerry's ambitions, and Horse's dance skills amongst his many attributes.There was also plenty of scope for deeper character development whilst touching on the poignant underlying themes, including mental health, unemployment and body confidence to name but a few. The story lines had pace building on a promise of the ‘One Night Only’ performance

Period costumes were added to good effect throughout. The simple set design was as always, dependent on the audience's imagination. The toilet trucks, Club and social meeting places all worked well. Not so much Harolds living room or the grave side, however there was a nod to the original at this point when the boys started involuntary practicing their moves.

The Full Monty succeeded as a stage production, importantly the natural camaraderie of the cast made the audience smile with plenty of genuine laughs. The show was both funny and sincere, addressing important topics through comedy. Well done everyone concerned on an enjoyable evening’s entertainment.

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